For Immediate ReleaseOffice of the Press SecretaryContact: 202-282-8010

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today held her inaugural meeting with the DHS Veterans Outreach Steering Committee to discuss the Department’s ongoing commitment to engaging the unique skills of veterans through employment, contracting opportunities and collaboration on key DHS initiatives such as Citizen Corps and other preparedness programs.

Secretary Napolitano announced the DHS Veterans Outreach Steering Committee in August to advise the Department on efforts to develop a structured and integrated approach to engaging the nation’s veteran community. The Committee is comprised of representatives from across DHS and will meet regularly throughout the year.

During the meeting, Secretary Napolitano outlined her major objectives for these efforts, including increased veteran employment opportunities; enhanced veteran contracting opportunities; and improved communication and collaboration between DHS and the veteran community.

Secretary Napolitano highlighted the Department’s active recruitment efforts, which have resulted in a DHS civilian workforce comprised of approximately 25 percent veterans, and outlined a robust strategy to engage veterans in promoting homeland security and emergency preparedness in their communities.

In the meeting, Secretary Napolitano and the Committee also discussed next steps for DHS’ ongoing veterans outreach, including expanding existing veterans programs, such as Operation War Fighter, and streamlining the Department’s veterans outreach website to enhance openness and transparency.